We’re back with the third installment of practical, cash-conscious ideas—time to save some money! If you missed the earlier posts, check out Save It: Part 1 and Save It: Part 2 for even more ways we keep our budgets under control. After sharing so many tips already, we’re still finding new small changes that add up, and we wanted to pass along a fresh batch of strategies to stretch your dollars further.
Cheapola Tip #1 – Use Points Strategically. When you’ve accumulated credit card reward points, don’t feel obligated to redeem them on a big-ticket indulgence you don’t really need. Instead, apply points toward everyday expenses you’d pay for anyway—gift cards for hardware stores, grocery cards, or fuel credit. It may not feel glamorous, but having rewards cover household staples lets you keep more cash in the bank.
Cheapola Tip #2 – Reduce Trash Pickup Frequency. Composting and recycling can dramatically reduce household waste. Our bin now fills up about every two weeks instead of weekly, so switching to a bi-monthly trash service cuts costs without much hassle. If your waste has decreased, check with local haulers about lower-frequency pickup options to save money.
Cheapola Tip #3 – Try Consignment. Rather than tossing closet castoffs into a donation bag, bring a batch to a consignment shop and see what they accept. On a whim, we took a large bag and walked away with cash for a few items we no longer wore—a couple of jeans, shoes that didn’t fit, and a dress. Consignment won’t take everything, but it can turn unused wardrobe pieces into real money with minimal effort.
Cheapola Tip #4 – Ask for Practical Gifts. Steering birthday and holiday requests toward items you would otherwise buy is a simple way to save. Instead of novelty gifts, ask for practical things—quality items you’d be purchasing anyway. For example, we added a pair of decorative candle sconces to a birthday list and got them gifted, saving us the cost and the checkout hassle.
Cheapola Tip #5 – Clear the Pantry Challenge. We went an entire month without major grocery shopping—only making two small trips for perishables, each under $25. The rule was simple: eat what’s already in the pantry and freezer until it’s gone. That meant using forgotten cans, grains, and frozen meals instead of buying convenience items. The result: significant savings and a much cleaner, more useful pantry that reveals what you actually eat (and what you don’t need to buy again).
Cheapola Tip #6 – Use Nature to Cut Costs. Small, inexpensive systems like a compost bin and a rain barrel give you free, organic soil and water for your garden. Starting a vegetable and fruit garden can reduce grocery bills over time and provide fresh produce when in season. Mild upfront effort and cost can pay off in healthier food and lower food spending.
Cheapola Tip #7 – Try Online Price-Saving Tactics. For items that need fitting—like running shoes—try them on in-store, note the exact model and size, then compare prices online. Many retailers sell identical items at lower prices or offer free shipping and coupon codes. This approach combines the confidence of an in-person fit with the savings of online deals.
Cheapola Tip #8 – Share Meals When Eating Out. Portion-sharing is an easy way to save when you’re on the go. For example, splitting a sandwich at lunch keeps costs down and often results in a healthier choice than pricier fast-food combos. Small changes like sharing a meal or skipping sides help the budget add up over time.
Cheapola Tip #9 – Refinance When Rates Are Right. If you own a home, refinancing to a lower interest rate can reduce monthly payments and save thousands over the life of the loan. It’s worth reviewing mortgage options when rates drop to see if refinancing makes financial sense for your situation.
We’d love to hear your penny-pinching ideas—share your best tips and tricks so we can all save a little more together!
For more money-saving strategies, check out other personal finance resources and community posts.